By Frank Momoh
As part of its drive to demystify technology in Nigeria, the National Office for Technology Acquisition and Promotion (NOTAP) has donated state of-the-art Model Science Laboratory equipment to Migrants Community Secondary School, Ibakang, Akwa-Ibom State.
Speaking at the commissioning ceremony of the upgraded science laboratory, the Acting Director General (DG) of NOTAP, Dr. Idoreyin Imiyoho, expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology under the leadership of the Minister, Chief Uche Nnaji, for his unwavering support for the actualisation of the dreams and aspirations of NOTAP.
According to her the Office was established by Federal Government to primarily to regulate the inflow of foreign technology through the registration of technology transfer agreements but also has the responsibility of encouraging the development of locally motivated technologies.
She reiterated that science and technology were pivotal to the development of every nation, and NOTAP being a critical stakeholder in the development of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) ecosystem in Nigeria felt duty bound to ensure that Nigerian secondary schools are equipped with model science laboratories to encourage science teaching and learning.
The DG, stated that science education is the cornerstone for societal progression and science in particular holds the key to unlocking the boundless potentials in Nigerian youth, hence the need to equip them with critical learning tools to actualize their educational dreams.
She noted that by equipping the school with a model chemistry laboratory apparatus, the Office is not just unveiling a physical space but has opened doors of endless possibilities hence sparking the flames of curiosity and discovery in the heart and minds of the students.
Imiyoho, further stated that the model laboratory will assist the students in not only conducting laboratory experiments but will also cultivate the culture of research, breed critical thinkers and problem solving skills on students.
The DG reiterated the importance of assisting schools with model equipment as it clearly symbolises the commitment and resolve of her office to nurturing the next generation of scientists, innovators and critical thinkers that will rule the world.
She said that in line with the renewed hope mantra of President Bola Tinubu, science education should play a critical role in shaping the destiny of our nation and citizens alike as according to her, every child deserves access to qualitative education irrespective of socio-economic backgrounds.
She paid a glowing tribute to the pioneer Director and Chief Executive Officer of NOTAP, Chief Friday Okono, for his tireless efforts in advancing the mission and vision of the Office and his steadfastness and dedication for the development of his community.
She added that it was in the spirit of inclusivity and to celebrate his legendary contributions to NOTAP and national development that spur the Office to donate the model science laboratory equipment to Migrants Community Secondary school, his home community.
She expressed gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology under the leadership of the Minister, Chief Uche Nnaji for the unwavering support for the actualisation of the dreams and aspirations of NOTAP.
She encouraged the Principal, teachers and students of the schools to jealously guide the equipment to ensure that they are properly utilized and also against vandals so that the equipment will serve as a critical educational legacy for the next generation.
In her welcome address, the Commissioner of Education, Akwa Ibom State, Mrs. Idongesit Etiebet, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Rose Bassey, commended NOTAP for supporting the educational infrastructure of the State by donating such state-of-the-art model Chemistry equipment for advancement of science education in the State.
She said that the initiative aligned perfectly with the ARISE agenda of the current government of Akwa Ibom State under the leadership of Pastor Umo Eno, which according to her, prioritize equipping the children with model educational opportunities to enhance their well-being and ensure they can compete favourably with their peers.
She underscores the importance of a pragmatic approach to education as essential for the youth, adding that it enables them to develop skills and knowledge both within and outside the classroom.
She said that the State government had launched numerous projects aimed at improving the quality of education in the State and urged NOTAP to continue to partner with State governments in ensuring the development of science education which is essential to the sustained economic development of every nation.
